Remembering Amos Hargrave

Dear VSA Members,

I am writing to inform you of the death of our beloved colleague, Amos Hargrave.

Amos died Sunday, January 18, 2026 in Lawrence, Kansas, at the age of 74, following a brief illness. The previous month he contracted influenza, which progressed to pneumonia and eventually respiratory failure.

Amos began his career in 1974 at the Violin Making School of America in Salt Lake City. After graduation, he continued to work in the shop of Peter Prier. In 1977 he went to New York City to work under Renee Morel. He then opened his own studio and worked in several different cities, most recently (since 2001) in Lawrence, Kansas. Amos’s skills and attention to detail were exceptional. He never rushed and nothing left his bench until he was satisfied. He was highly sought after as a master restorer.

Amos was awarded four gold medals from the VSA between 1980 and 1982 and was designated Hors Concours status in 1984. He became a member of the AFVBM in 1986 and served on its board several times. He served as workmanship judge for many violin making competitions. He was also a teacher and mentor to many aspiring violin makers and restorers.

He will be greatly missed by his family and friends and many colleagues around the world as well as all the musicians who depended on him.

He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Michele Bergman, stepchildren Emily Winters and Andy Sack, and four beloved grandchildren.

Sincerely,
Kenneth & Nancy Beckmann